Combined BS/MPH Program with Health Equity Emphasis

Program Highlights & Accreditation

Simmons University's Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Equity program distinctively centers on the intersection of public health and social justice. The program is designed to equip students with skills to critically analyze structural determinants of health and persistent systems of oppression; undertake policy analyses and practices to advance systems change; engage in community organizing and innovation, and advance community-based research methods in partnership with local communities and organizations.

Simmons University’s Public Health programs, including the MPH, have earned accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Delivery Modes

The MPH program is delivered through a hybrid model, combining online courses, self-paced content, and essential in-person immersion experiences. For students in the combined BS/MPH pathways, such as the 3+1 program, an accelerated format is available for the MPH component.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is practice-based, focusing on providing real-world skills to ensure graduates are prepared as effective public health practitioners. While specific total credit hours for the standalone MPH are not detailed in this context, students in combined programs may take graduate-level courses like MHEO 410 Health Equity & Social Justice and MHEO 415 Epidemiology. The Early Admission BS to MPH program notes that taking 2 MPH courses during undergraduate studies decreases the total credits needed for both degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Combined BS/MPH Pathways (Simmons Undergraduates)

The provided information details admission pathways for current Simmons undergraduate students into the MPH program:

• 3+1 BS to MPH Program: Available to students applying to Simmons for their Bachelor's or matriculated undergraduates pursuing it in their first year. Requires consultation with the BS in Public Health Program Director. Application includes an academic advising form, Simmons MPH application, one essay, and one letter of recommendation from a Simmons professor. Students must maintain a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and earn a 3.0 in statistics to matriculate into the MPH program.

• Early Admission BS to MPH Program: Available to matriculated BS in Public Health majors after completing 48-80 credits. Requires consultation with a faculty advisor and an advising checklist. Application includes the MPH application form, one essay, three letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a current résumé. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA or higher. Students must earn a "B" or better in MPH courses taken as an undergraduate.

Career & Practical Experience

The program aims to prepare graduates for careers as effective public health practitioners focused on health equity and social justice. Students develop skills in policy analysis, community organizing, and community-based research, often in partnership with local communities and organizations, providing practical experience.